E-learning tool for Japanese language learning through English, Hindi and Tamil: A computer assisted language learning (CALL) based approach

Abstract

The use of computers has revolutionized the learning and teaching process. In case of learning languages its contribution is very important due to the availability of various multimedia tools. Computer assisted language learning (CALL) is a well established area of research. This has lead to a shift of focus from the teacher to the learner by giving the learner a greater level of autonomy. CALL focuses on the receptive skills of reading and listening which are very necessary for learning a language. In this paper we will analyze the features and advantages of CALL. A lot of people do not take up learning languages like Japanese inspite of their interest in that language only due to its entirely different pictographic writing system that is not easy to master. Classroom and textbook teaching alone would not suffice for learning the essential basics of Japanese language. Therefore in this paper we shall also be presenting an e-learning tool that can be used to learn and teach basics of Japanese language in a more interactive manner.